Women in Media International Women's Day 2026 - Future Proof: Winning in Digital Media

This International Women's Day, Southern Cross Austereo in partnership with Women In Media NSW presents Future Proof: Winning in Digital Media. Bringing together senior leaders across broadcast, digital media, advertising and audio to explore where the real opportunities lie across YouTube and podcasts in 2026.

Join us for an evening of connection and insight with rooftop drinks at SCA's incredible function space, generous hot and cold canapés, and a live DJ as we dive into navigating the opportunity in YouTube, podcasts & digital content and storytelling.

As audiences and revenue shift to digital platforms, creators are building sustainable businesses across platform-first ecosystems. Caroline Oates, Head of YouTube & Programmatic Sales ANZ at Google; Hannah Barnes, Director TV & AVOD at VA Media Network; Marina Go AM, Non-Executive Director at Southern Cross Austereo; and Clair Weaver, Head of Factual at LiSTNR, will share what is genuinely working and how content, advertising and careers are evolving, interviewed by MC Dominique Spanos.

The discussion will unpack current audience behaviour, advertising growth, emerging content trends, and sustainable business models across YouTube, podcasting and vodcasting. The session will offer practical insight into where growth is happening and how creators and executives can build future-facing careers beyond traditional TV.

You'll walk away with:

·       A clear understanding of where the real opportunities sit as the industry transforms

·       Practical insight into how your existing skills translate to digital-first platforms

·       A realistic view of what's actually working—audience behaviour, formats, and monetisation

·       Greater clarity on new career paths and business models emerging beyond traditional TV

·       Tools to future-proof your career, not just your content

Whether you're a producer, creative, or executive navigating industry change, this is your chance to gain practical strategies for meeting audiences where they're going—and building a sustainable business while you're at it.

Drinks | Canapés | DJ | Real Talk

This event is open to everyone who supports gender equality and diversity in media, including women, non-binary people, and allies.

We also support emerging or returning media practitioners who may not have the financial means to purchase a ticket—please contact the Women in Media NSW Committee at nsw@womeninmedia.com.au